Welcome the weekend! Do something spontaneous--a walk in the neighborhood, a trip to the local antique mall, sit under some trees, listen to favorite vintage album/CD, visit the library. ✧˖°.
This poem, Desiderata, written in 1927 by the American writer Max Ehrman, has been a guiding light for many. It was discovered in an old St. Paul’s Church in Baltimore and has since resonated deeply with readers around the world. I keep it on the wall of my podcast set to remind me of what truly matters and to guide me through tough times. Let’s take a moment to reflect on its profound messages.
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
Found in Old Saint Paul’s Church – Baltimore
Desiderata concludes with a powerful reminder: “With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.” Life, despite its imperfections, is inherently beautiful. Striving for happiness and maintaining a cheerful disposition can help us navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience.
Whenever I feel down or conflicted, I return to this poem for comfort and guidance. It helps realign my mindset and reinforces my resolve to continue my journey. I hope this reading has lifted your spirits and provided you with some solace. Remember, the universe is unfolding as it should, and our journey is here to teach us valuable lessons.
In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved, and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders Fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders Fields.
